PRIME Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has assured Sabahans that their constitutional right to 40% of federal revenue collected from the state will not be denied, even as implementation is being negotiated in stages.
Speaking in Kampung Kobuni, Inanam, on Friday, Anwar underlined that the entitlement – one of Sabah’s most sensitive demands under the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63) – remains intact.
“Sabah has the right to 40% revenue. This cannot be denied. This right is enshrined in the Constitution, and we must discuss how to implement it in stages,” he said.
While acknowledging that Malaysia’s overall financial position must be considered, Anwar stressed that his government would not back away from the principle.
“We cannot deny this right. The only issue is the mechanism, and the country’s financial capacity must be considered. But my commitment is clear: we will not reject this claim.”
He added that discussions with Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor’s administration are ongoing.
“I have already discussed this with the Chief Minister and we will continue negotiations. What can be implemented immediately, we will implement.”
Budget 2026 pledge for Sabah
Beyond the revenue question, Anwar pledged that Budget 2026 will carry special allocations for Sabah, aimed at narrowing the development gap that has long separated the state from Peninsular Malaysia.
“Sabah must not be neglected. In Budget 2026, I want there to be a special announcement for Sabah. We must improve schools, roads and deal with floods — this is my commitment.”
He said the development push will not be limited to Kota Kinabalu, but extend to interior districts.
“It is not only Kota Kinabalu. Keningau, Tenom, Pitas, Nabawan — all must benefit. This is the meaning of justice for Sabah.”
The National Budget 2026 is expected to be tabled in October 10.
More parliamentary seats
Anwar also confirmed that the government has agreed in principle to Sabah and Sarawak’s request for more parliamentary seats, as part of MA63 reforms.
“Sabah and Sarawak must not be sidelined. The request for more parliamentary seats has been approved in principle, and we are working on the details with the Election Commission,” he said, recalling the recent MA63 talks in Kuching. – September 26, 2025
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